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Nasser (right) with his brother Khuram who was killed while on holiday in Sri Lanka in 2011 Credit: ITV Granada

Nasser Shaikh, the elder brother brother of Khuram, has released this statement from Colombo where four men have been jailed for his murder:

“Today, the country has done what many people hoped and prayed for. Those who killed my brother have been punished and are now behind bars for a long time.

"Our campaign was not only about justice, but to bring awareness of the wonderful work my brother did around the world, working in humanitarian aid. He is a true inspiration for many and we hope his legacy continues with those he left behind.

"Whilst our family and friends find it difficult to come to terms with the tragic loss, I hope today can bring some comfort to everyone involved that we achieved the justice we set out for and the country can move forward in a better place for many, ensuring no other person suffers the same fate as my brother.

"I wish to thank everyone who embarked on my personal journey around the world and supported it immensely, which includes the Sri Lankan public.

"I would also like to thank the British Government who have been instrumental in seeking answers for our family, the Sri Lankan officials for progressing the trial towards its resolution, but more importantly to acknowledge the bravery and defiance shown by those who gave witness accounts in the case.

"Today is a symbolic moment: a day the country delivered justice – a day I delivered my promise to a brother.”

“We welcome the verdicts and sentences handed down today to those responsible for the murder of Khuram Shaikh. We hope that this will begin some closure for his family and friends who have faced a long and difficult fight for justice.

"The officials of the Attorney General’s office have shown great professionalism and integrity and we would like to thank them. We will continue to monitor any developments in the case closely.”

There are fears that the murder trial of a Rochdale aid worker killed while on holiday in Sri Lanka could collapse and start from scratch due to interference from the country's President.

The trial has been underway in Colombo for several weeks, but reports in the local press in Sri Lanka say the presiding High Court judge, Rohini Walgama, has been put forward for a promotion to the Appeal Courts.

If her promotion is accepted by President Mahinda Rajapaksa, a new judge will be appointed to the trial and the defence will have the option of asking all the evidence to be heard again from the beginning.

Six men are accused of murdering Khuram Shaikh, including Sampath Vidanapathirana, a town council leader and close associate of President Rajapaksa.

Mr Shaikh was killed while on holiday in the resort of Tangelle on Christmas Day 2011.

Rochdale MP Simon Danczuk, who has long suspected a political cover-up in the case, told Granada Reports he fears political intervention could once again deny the Shaikh family justice.